CCNA Certification: Understanding the Exam Structure and Certification Tracks

Introduction to CCNA Certification

Up until August 2023, the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification primarily required passing a single exam, the 200-301 CCNA, which covers a broad range of networking topics, including network fundamentals, IP connectivity, security fundamentals, automation, and programmability.

It’s important to note that standards evolve. Therefore, it is advisable to check the official Cisco website for the most current information, as Cisco may update its certification tracks and requirements over time.

CCNP Pre-requisites

The CCNP (Cisco Certified Network Professional) certification is one of the next steps in the Cisco certification journey and typically requires the candidate to pass one or two CCNA exams, depending on their choice. Historically, preparing for the CCNP included four exams.

Thus, if you plan to pursue the CCNP, you not only need to pass one CCNA exam but also consider additional study to prepare for the next level of certification.

Cisco: A Leader in Networking

Cisco is the world's largest and most renowned company in the realm of networking technology, headquartered in San Jose, California, USA. The company's founding in 1984 by computer scientist Leonard Bosack of Stanford University and his wife Sandy Lerner has established Cisco in the technological landscape.

Cisco is known for manufacturing high-level networking hardware and telecommunications equipment, providing a robust foundation for network professionals aiming to enhance their skills and career.

CCNA Certifications Offered by Cisco

CCNA has several certifications available for networking technologies, allowing individuals to specialize in various areas. The number of specific exam requirements varies, but let's take a closer look at a few of the certification tracks:

Single Exam CCNA Routing

The 200-125 exam is the current exam for CCNA Routing. This multiple-choice exam, consisting of 58 questions, has a total score of 1000, with a passing score of 810.

Diverse CCNA Certifications

Cisco offers nine distinct CCNA certifications, each focusing on different networking technologies:

CCNA RS (Routing and Switching) CCNA SEC (Security) CCNA DC (Data Center) CCNA Wireless CCNA Collaboration CCNA SP (Service Provider) CCNA ICND1 (Introduction to Collins and Networking) CCNA SPNGN1 (Service Provider Next Generation Network) CCNA SPNGN2 (Service Provider Next Generation Network) CCNA Cyber Ops / CCNA SECFND (Security Fundamentals) CCNA Cyber Ops / CCNA SECOPS (Security Operations)

Each certification requires different exams and skills, and wanting to specialize in a specific area can help you tailor your learning to better meet your career goals.

Choosing Your Path

Deciding on the CCNA certification you wish to pursue is the first step. After selecting your certification, it is crucial to visit the official Cisco CCNA page to find the specific exam for your chosen certification.

Utilizing multiple sources to gather valid and authentic information is essential for your preparation. Ensure that you have all the necessary study materials and resources to help you achieve your certification goals.